What Does This Make Possible?
DAD makes it easy for a group to discover better practices that only a few members are using to solve a common problem, called *positive deviant* behaviors. When held in a local setting close to where the problem manifests, it creates a safe space to invent new and more effective practices, sparking imagination and strengthening resolve to take action. It also builds relationships between people in diverse roles. This structure enacts LS Principle #2, Practice Deep Respect for People and Local Solutions.
Structural Elements — Min Specs
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Structuring Invitation
"We're going to uncover the behaviors and practices some of us are already using to tackle our shared challenge. It's like going on a treasure hunt to find the solutions hidden in our midst."
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Space and Materials
Space for groups of five to seven to stand or sit around tables. Paper for each participant. Seven questions prepared in advance for small groups to display.
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Participation Distribution
Roles include [tech host], group hosts, scribes, and participants. Minimum group size is two. Everyone is invited and has an equal opportunity to contribute.
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Group Configuration
Groups of five to seven, whole group.
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Steps and Time Allocation
- Intro: Describe the shared problem and share the structuring invitation. (3 min.)
- DAD Groups Assemble: Participants form small groups of five to seven [breakouts]. They name a host to manage the conversation and make sure each question is addressed and a scribe to take notes. (3 min.)
- The Magnificent Seven: Each group host restates the problem and asks the seven questions. They display the questions for the group [in screen share and in the chat]. 1. How do you know when problem X is present? 2. How do you contribute effectively to solving problem X? 3. What prevents you from doing this or taking these actions all the time? 4. Do you know anybody who is able to frequently solve problem X and overcome barriers? What behaviors or practices made their success possible? 5. Do you have any new ideas for solving problem X? 6. What needs to be done to make it happen? Who volunteers to take these steps? 7. Who else needs to be involved? (5 min.)
- Launch the Treasure Hunt: Participants in each group answer the questions together, one at a time. The group host poses each question and keeps the group on track but does not participate in answering the questions. Signal [broadcast a message] when it is time to move to the next question, allotting equal time for each one. (35–60 min.)
- Recap Highlights: Everyone returns to plenary. Invite each group's scribe to highlight "wow" stories, behaviors, or actions the group discovered, and share next steps from their group. [Participants can list suggestions in the chat.] (5 min.)
- Who Else to Invite: Ask the whole group who to invite to the next dialogue. (3 min.)
Tips & Pitfalls
- Create an informal climate for DAD by starting with introductions, restating the shared tough problem in plain language, and sharing an anecdote.
- Hold DAD where the participants work to minimize obstacles to participation.
- Group hosts need practice to become skilled at this approach; encourage them to ask their scribes for direct feedback.
- See tips for group hosts in Figure 5.17.
Riffs & Variations
- Use the first three questions to prompt creative destruction and explore factors that make a problem worse ("What can you do to make sure that problem X becomes much worse?" etc.).
- Use the same questions to guide one-on-one conversations.
Practical Applications
- DAD can help cross-functional groups reduce harm to participants from safety lapses, collect data for an ethnographic project, and aid team members remedy dysfunctional behaviors that are eroding trust and productivity.
Online & Hybrid Facilitation
DAD works online with no major adjustments. Use breakout rooms for the small groups. Display the seven questions in screen share and also in the chat.
Combine with Other Structures
Sources & License
Liberating Structure developed by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless. Dig deeper by exploring Positive Deviance, an approach to behavioral and social change: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Positive_deviance ---
Based on the work of Keith McCandless and Nancy White, The Liberating Structures Fieldbook (2026), CC BY-SA 4.0.
